
235 
Although several periods of below-normal temperatures occurred 
in May and June, abnormal weather that would seriously interfere with nesting 
or brood survival did not occur. 
Swales and ponds were adequately filled with run-off water in the 
spring and permitted wide dispersal of the breeding population. 
Spring Migration Observations 
Comparative counts of spring migrants entering or passing through 
the State were obtained as an index to the numbers of potential breeders return- 
ing to the nesting grounds. 
District game biologists recording observations on 16 sample check 
areas, reported nine of these areas to have increased numbers of waterfowl 
compared to 1954. Five areas were reported as having the same number and 
two as having fewer migrants this year. 
Aerial censuses as carried on for the past six years on Saginaw Bay, 
Lake St. Clair, and Lake Erie during periods of peak "build-ups" of migrants 
were not completed. Inclement weather and unusual movements made it im- 
practical to obtain this information. 
Judging from the comparative counts on the sample check areas, 
increased numbers of potential breeding waterfowl entered or passed through 
Michigan this spring, which indicates a good carry-over of parent stock in this 
area. 
Potential Breeding Population Surveys 
Surveys made to determine the comparative abundance of breeding 
pairs indicate a favorable nesting population. On sample check areas scattered 
throughout the State, district game biologists found a nesting population slightly 
lower than in 1954 but higher than the past six-year average. The potential 
breeding population compared to the previous years follows: 
Potential breeders 

Year Lineal Miles Censused per lineal mile 
1949 85 6.80 
1950 81 7.91 
1951 120 8.18 
1952 82 7.13 
1953 95.5 12.75 
1954 93.5 . 2.34 
1955 b1i1.2 11.00 
These sample check areas are representative of the better type of 
habitat in various regions of the State. 
